Discovery is one of the loveliest gifts we can give ourselves. At op Oost we invite our guests to become curious again, to play, to smell, to taste and to feel. Whether you're young or old, discovery opens up new worlds.
For us, discovery isn't about having to do something, but about being allowed to. It's not about ticking boxes, but about pleasure, wonder and creating new memories. About freedom, creativity and inspiration. That's why we're sharing our own discoveries below—a list full of experiences that will inspire you and connect you with nature, the seasons and yourself.
A little inspiration list for the explorer in you
Nature x Creativity
Think drawing, painting or working with clay is just for children? We don't! I've recently started making botanical prints. From clay, plaster and ink. Beautiful impressions of sage leaf veins or an oak leaf. I was honestly as delighted as a child when the creations flowed from me. And proud too. Is woodworking more your thing? During an inspiration weekend with Natasja from Native Nature and my other dear friend Leoniek from de Buitenkeuken, I learnt woodworking. We made beautiful bracelets from a 50-year-old apple tree that sadly had to be felled (disease). Did you know, by the way, that the gorgeous wall hanging at op Oost was made by Natasja?
The salty adventure
Together with our oyster man you'll discover the Wadden Sea, our back garden. A stone's throw from op Oost you'll find the stones amongst which the oysters live. Right opposite the windmill of het Noorden, we walk down. At low tide the salty treasures reveal themselves; oysters, periwinkles, mussels and of course the various seaweeds. Jan de Oesterman, Joram's father, teaches you everything about their habitat, when oyster season is (months with an R in them ;) and how to open them. We don't take crates full home, everything is done with respect for nature. But naturally you may taste one or two or more, with a glass of cava and the adventure is complete.
"At op Oost you'll discover a new edible world."
Wild foraging and garden tours – an edible discovery journey
We're blessed with two beautiful gardens. Our edible garden at op Oost and our orchard with food forest and kitchen gardens 4km away; de Waelde Tuin. Here we grow all our vegetables, fruit and herbs. At op Oost you'll find lots of herbs, wild forage and small pick-your-own fruit like berries. So you can have a little seasonal nibble the moment you step out of your suite. During the garden tours you'll not only learn about nature-inclusive growing, the challenges of maintaining a kitchen garden for a restaurant, but you'll also discover a whole new edible world. Because wild foraging features too. I could talk about it endlessly.
Yoga in the orchard, meditation, forest bathing and aromatherapy
The calm of lavender, the tingle of mint and the playfulness of verbena.... Herbs. The cultivated herbs never cease to amaze. Come experience their power in our herb garden and aromatherapy field in the orchard. As well as the power of a moment for yourself. A yoga or breathing session, forest bathing moment or meditation in the fresh air, guided by Tirsa or Cindy... truly works wonders. Discover what the outdoors, peace and quiet can do for you.
"Feel the healing power of discovery."
What it does for you
Discovery changes your mindset. It provides new stimuli, new stories, and strengthens your sense of freedom. By playing, smelling, tasting, moving and listening, you create memories that last. Discovery is an invitation to be in the moment, stay curious, and see pleasure as a valuable ingredient.
At op Oost we believe that discovery is a way of life. It's not about efficiency or achievement, but about pleasure, attention and creating memories. We invite you to go exploring during your stay, open your senses and enjoy everything that Texel, op Oost and our Waelde Tuin have to offer.
See you soon, see you at op Oost
Valerie